Device for regenerating liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate

Abstract

The invention concerns a rotational regenerator device for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, the device comprising a housing, a rotor mounted for rotation in said housing, having a shaft and a separation unit comprising a plurality of channels coaxial to the shaft, a reboiler unit, a condenser unit and means for rotating the rotor around its central axis of rotation. The invention further concerns an absorption system for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorption system comprising the regenerator device and an absorber device for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent. The invention also relates to a method for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate using the regenerator device or the absorption system.

Description

[0001] DEVICE FOR REGENERATING LIQUID ABSORBENT LOADED WITH ABSORBATE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates to a regenerator device for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate and to an absorption system for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorption system comprising the regenerator device and an absorber device for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas. The invention further relates to a method for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate using the regenerator device or the absorption system.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Technology for removing gas phase impurities from gases by absorption is widely used in engineering applications. The gas containing the gaseous impurities is brought into contact with an absorbing liquid with the aim of selectively allowing the gaseous impurities to diffuse to the absorbing liquid. Such processes are typically used to purify gas streams and / or to limit emissions of certain gaseous impurities. Examples are the removal of H2S and CO2 from contaminated natural gas using amines, contacting glycol to dry i.e. absorb water vapour from) gases, removing SO2 from combustion gases using salty water and removal of CO2 from the air, from flue gases, or from biogas using amines.

[0005] In what follows, the gas phase impurities or gaseous impurities that are selectively absorbed by a liquid absorbent are called ‘absorbate(s)’ .

[0006] The absorption step is typically performed by spraying a liquid absorbent in the form of droplets in a gas flowing in a spray chamber, by letting the gas in the form of bubbles flow through a continuous phase of liquid absorbent in a tray column, by allowing a liquid absorbent to flow in thin films over solid particles packed in a column through which the gas flows, or by using a rotational absorber device as disclosed in for example WO2018 / 212643A1. See in this respect also Perry’s Chemical Engineers’ Handbook, 9thEdition, 2019, D.W. Green and M.Z. Southard, McGraw Hill Education, page 14-6 to 14-25, on the design of gas absorption systems.

[0007] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, selective absorption of an absorbate in the liquid absorbent results in a gas with an improved purity but also in a liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate. This liquid absorbent typically is a valuable product that cannot be simply disposed of when loaded with absorbate, since that would severely hamper the economic viability of the process. Hence, the liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate needs to be regenerated to obtain 'fresh’ liquid absorbent and an absorbate that can be separately stored or used elsewhere.

[0008] Regeneration of liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate involves release of the absorbate from the liquid absorbent using heating, depressurization to a lower pressure or stripping with another gas or vapour. After the regeneration process, the liquid absorbent can be used again.Regeneration is typically performed in a stripper, being a vertical cylindrical column or tower of considerable height, such as 20 to 30 m, with trays or packings therein. See in this respect also Perry’s Chemical Engineers’ Handbook, 9thEdition, 2019, D.W. Green and M.Z. Southard, McGraw Hill Education, page 14-6 to 14-25, on the design of gas stripping systems.

[0009] A disadvantage of the regeneration methods used in the art is that a relatively large amount of energy is involved in removing the absorbate from the liquid absorbent. Moreover, the stripping sections used in the art require voluminous devices, more particular devices with a considerable height.

[0010] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a more efficient regenerating process for the removal of absorbate from a liquid absorbent, more preferably a more energy-efficient regenerating process.

[0011] It is a further object of the invention to provide a regenerating or stripping device, such as part of an absorption- stripping system, that can be placed in areas where space is limited.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The inventors have unexpectedly established that one or more of the objects can be met by using a regenerator device comprising a rotating separation unit with a plurality of counter-current gas-liquid contacting channels coaxial to the axis of rotation of the separation unit instead of trays or packings.

[0014] Accordingly, in a first aspect, the invention provides a rotational regenerator device (100) for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, the device comprising:

[0015] • a housing (101) having a top section (101a), a middle section (101b) and a bottom section (101c) in an axial direction and having at least one inlet (lOld) in top section (101a) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (lOle) in top section (101a) for a gaseous absorbate and at least one outlet (lOlf) in bottom section (101c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent;

[0016] • a rotor (102) mounted for rotation in said housing (101) around a central axis of rotation (A), having a shaft (102a) and a separation unit (102b) comprising a plurality of channels (102c) coaxial to the shaft (102a) and extending axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A), wherein the channels (102c) are circumferentially enclosed by walls (102d) and have openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) and openings (102e’) facing the bottom section (101c), wherein the channels (102c) and the walls (102d) of the a separation unit (102b) do not extend beyond the middle section (101b);

[0017] • a reboiler unit (103) positioned in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) or fluidly connected to the bottom section (101c) via at least one outlet (10 If) and positioned outside the housing (101);• a condenser unit (104) positioned in the top section (101a) of the housing (101 ) or fluidly connected to the top section (101a) via at least one outlet (101 e) and positioned outside the housing (101); and

[0018] • means (105) for rotating the rotor (102) around the central axis of rotation (A).

[0019] The rotational regenerator device (100) has the advantage that it may be designed relatively small in size, in particular relative to know regenerator devices such as vertical cylindrical columns or towers filled with trays or packings, such as 25 to 100 times less high than cylindrical columns or towers filled with trays or packings. Accordingly, the rotational regenerator device (100) can be placed in areas where space is limited.

[0020] In a second aspect, the invention provides an absorption system (200) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorption system (200) comprising:

[0021] • at least one rotational regenerator device ( 100) as defined in the first aspect; and

[0022] • at least one absorber device (300) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorber device (300) comprising a housing (301), at least one inlet (301 d) for liquid absorbent, at least one inlet (301 e) for a gas loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (301 f) for a scrubbed gas, and at least one outlet (301g) for a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate,

[0023] wherein at least one outlet (301 g) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of at least one absorber device (300) is in a first fluid connection (201) with at least one inlet (101 d) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of at least one rotational regenerator device (100), and wherein at least one outlet (10 If, 103c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent of at least one rotational regenerator device (100) is in a second fluid connection (202) with at least one inlet (30 Id) for liquid absorbent of at least one absorber device (300).

[0024] The rotational regenerator device (100) according to the first aspect and the absorption system (200) according to the second aspect allow to efficiently regenerate liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate. Hence, in a third aspect, the invention provides a method for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, comprising the steps of:

[0025] (a) providing a rotational regenerator device (100) according to the first aspect or an absorption system (200) according to the second aspect;

[0026] (b) feeding a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, wherein said liquid absorbent comprises water, via the at least one inlet (lOld) to housing (101), wherein said liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate moves through the plurality of channels (102c) of the rotor (102) in the axial direction to the bottom section (101c) driven by gravity while the absorbate is beingscrubbed by water vapour moving from the bottom section (101c) through the plurality of channels (102c) in the axial direction to the top section (101a), resulting in at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent in the bottom section (101c) and a mixture comprising water vapour and gaseous absorbate in the top section (101a);

[0027] (c) subjecting the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent to a reboiling step in the reboiling unit (103), resulting in water vapour that is used in step (b);

[0028] (d) subjecting the mixture comprising water vapour and gaseous absorbate to a condensation step in the condenser unit (104), resulting in water and gaseous absorbate; and

[0029] (e) discharging partially regenerated liquid absorbent via outlet (lOlf, 103c) and gaseous absorbate via outlet (lOle, 104c),

[0030] wherein the rotor (102) is rotated during steps (b) to (e).

[0031] Because of the rotation of the rotor during steps (b) to (e), the liquid absorbent loaded with the absorbate will migrate towards and will eventually be confined to an inward facing part of wall (102d) of each channel (102c), where it forms a film with a thickness that may be as small as 0.001 to 1 mm. The small cross section of openings (102e, 102e’) of the channels (102c) in the radial direction, and of the channels (102c) as a whole, and the small thickness of the film promote a low resistance to molecular transport of absorbate from liquid absorbent to water vapour. Moreover, the formation of a film due to centrifugal forces prevents blocking of the channels (102c) by capillary forces, which can create a bridge of fluid over the entire cross section of the openings (102e, 102e’) of the channels (102c).

[0032] DEFINITIONS

[0033] The terms ‘regenerator’ and ‘regenerator device’ as used herein are considered synonymous with 'stripper’ and 'stripper device’ .

[0034] The terms ‘horizontal’, ' horizontal direction’ , 'vertical’ and 'vertical direction’ as used herein as regards the spatial arrangement of the housing (101) in use in the method of the invention have their common meaning in the art. Hence, a horizontal arrangement concerns an arrangement substantially parallel to the floor or bottom and a vertical arrangement concerns an arrangement substantially perpendicular to the floor or bottom.

[0035] The term ‘axial direction’ as used herein in the context of the housing (101) and the rotor (102) refers to a direction parallel to the central axis of the housing (101) and parallel to the central axis of rotation (A) of the rotor (102). When in use in the method of the invention, the 'axial direction’ substantially coincides with the ‘vertical direction’ .

[0036] The term ‘radial direction’ as used herein in the context of the housing (101) and the rotor(102) refers to a direction perpendicular to the ‘axial direction' . When in use in the method of the invention, the ‘radial direction’ substantially coincides with the ‘horizontal direction’ .

[0037] The terms ‘bottom section (101c)’ , ‘middle section (101b)’ and ‘top section (101a)’ as used in the context of the housing (101) refer to subsequent sections of the housing (101) when moving in the axial direction.

[0038] The terms ‘fluid connection’ and ‘fluidly connected’ as used herein refer to the use of a conduit between two points, such as an inlet of a first device and an outlet of another device, suitable for transporting fluid.

[0039] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0040] Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of the rotational regenerator device (100) according to the first aspect wherein a reboiler unit (103) is positioned in the bottom section (101c) and a condenser unit (104) is positioned in the top section (101a) of the housing (101).

[0041] Figure 2 depicts an embodiment of the rotational regenerator device (100) according to the first aspect wherein a reboiler unit (103) is fluidly connected to the bottom section (101c) via an outlet (lOlf) and is positioned outside the housing (101) and wherein a condenser unit (104) is fluidly connected to the top section (101a) via an outlet (101 e) and is also positioned outside the housing (101).

[0042] Figure 3 depicts an embodiment of the rotational regenerator device (100) according to Figure 2 with additional recycle streams.

[0043] Figures 4 and 5 depict embodiments of the absorption system (200) according to the second aspect.

[0044] Figures 6a and 6b schematically depict embodiments of a rotor (102) of the rotational regenerator device (100), seen in the axial direction.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Rotational regenerator device (100)

[0047] In a first aspect, the invention concerns a rotational regenerator device (100) for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, the device comprising:

[0048] • a housing (101) having a top section (101a), a middle section (101b) and a bottom section (101c) in an axial direction and having at least one inlet (101 d) in top section (101a) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (101 e) in top section (101a) for a gaseous absorbate and at least one outlet (101 f) in bottom section (101c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent;• a rotor (102) mounted for rotation in said housing (101) around a central axis of rotation (A), having a shaft (102a) and a separation unit (102b) comprising a plurality of channels (102c) coaxial to the shaft (102a) and extending axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A), wherein the channels (102c) are circumferentially enclosed by walls (102d) and have openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) and openings (102e’) facing the bottom section (101c), wherein the channels (102c) and the walls (102d) of the separation unit (102b) do not extend beyond the middle section (101b);

[0049] • a reboiler unit (103) positioned in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) or fluidly connected to the bottom section (101c) via at least one outlet (101 f) and positioned outside the housing (101);

[0050] • a condenser unit (104) positioned in the top section (101a) of the housing (101 ) or fluidly connected to the top section (101a) via at least one outlet (lOle) and positioned outside the housing (101); and

[0051] • means (105) for rotating the rotor (102) around the central axis of rotation (A).

[0052] The total height of the housing in the axial direction includes the height of the top section (101a), middle section (101b) and bottom section (101c). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the top section (101a), middle section (101b) and bottom section (101c) of the housing (1) are immediately adjacent in the axial direction.

[0053] The height of the top section (101a) needs to be sufficient to distribute liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate across the openings (102e) of the plurality of channels (102c) of the separation unit (102b) in the middle section (101b). If the condenser unit (104) is positioned inside the top section (101a) of the housing (101), the height of the top section (101a) further needs to be sufficient to comprises the condenser unit (104). It is within the skills of the artisan to choose an appropriate height for the top section (101a).

[0054] The height of the bottom section (101c) needs to be sufficient to collect at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent, with the proviso that a liquid-vapour interface formed above the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent is sufficiently far removed from openings (102e’) of the plurality of channels (102c) of the separation unit (102b), i.e. the liquid- vapour interface should be sufficiently far removed from the lower side of the middle section (101b), to enable free entrance of vapour into the plurality of channels (102c). If the reboiler unit (103) is positioned inside the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101), the height of the bottom section (101c) needs to be sufficient to comprises the reboiler unit (103). It is within the skills of the artisan to choose an appropriate height for the bottom section (101c).

[0055] The height of the middle section (101b) needs to be sufficient to contain the separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) comprising the plurality of channels (102c) coaxial to the shaft (102a) andthe walls (102d) enclosing them. It is within the skills of the artisan to choose an appropriate height for the middle section (101b). The plurality of channels (102c) and their walls (102d) extend axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A) and do not extend beyond the middle section (101b). In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of channels (102c) and their walls (102d) extend axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A) that constitutes at least 80% of the height of the middle section (101b) in the axial direction, more preferably at least 90%. In a most preferred embodiment, the plurality of channels (102c) and their walls (102d) extend axially over an entire length (B) that is substantially identical to a height of the middle section (101b) in the axial direction. See Figures 1- 5 for examples. In an embodiment, length (B) is between 5 and 500 cm, preferably between 10 and 200 cm.

[0056] In an embodiment, the rotor (102) comprises more than one separation unit (102b, 102b’, ..) in the axial direction as defined hereinbefore, with the proviso that the combined lengths (B) of the separation unit (102b, 102b’, ..) and the height of any space in between does not extend beyond the middle section (101b).

[0057] In an embodiment, the housing (101) comprises one, two, three or four inlets (101 d) in top section (101a) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate. In an embodiment, the housing (101) comprises one, two, three or four outlets (101 e) in top section (101a) for gaseous absorbate. In an embodiment, the housing (101) comprises one, two, three or four outlets (101 f) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent.

[0058] Since, during operation, the mixture of water vapour and gaseous absorbate collected in the top section (101a) has a swirling motion due to the rotating rotor (102), the one or more outlets (101 e) are preferably arranged tangentially to direct the swirling rotational motion of the mixture of water vapour and gaseous absorbate or the gaseous absorbate into a translational motion while leaving the housing (101).

[0059] The one or more outlets (lOle) are preferably positioned above the level, in the axial direction, at which the liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate is distributed across the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c) of the separation unit (102b) in order to minimize entrainment of droplets of liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate in the gas stream leaving the housing (101) via the one or more outlets (lOle).

[0060]

[0061] The channels (102c) have openings (102e) facing the top section (101a). Likewise, the channels (102c) have openings (102e’) facing the bottom section (101c).The channels (102) which are circumferentially enclosed by walls (102d) are substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A). Application of channels (102c) positioned non-parallel to the central axis of rotation (A) results in a component of the centrifugal force acting parallel to the walls (102d) and can serve as a means for or to enhance the continuous transportation of the collected fluid film along the walls (102d). However, such inclined walls (102d) may cause secondary flows, in particular under laminar flow conditions, such as secondary flows due to Coriolis forces. These secondary forces may disturb the stripping process. A small inclination of the channels (102c) with the central axis of rotation (A) in the order of 0.1-1 radians may, however, be beneficial. In an embodiment, the channels (102c) which are circumferentially enclosed by walls (102d) are parallel to a common central axis of rotation (A).

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the number of the plurality of channels (102c) in the separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) amounts to at least 10, more preferably at least 100, even more preferably at least 1000, such as between 10 and 10000, between 100 and 5000 or between 250 and 2000.

[0063] For a given combined cross section of the openings (102e) and for a given length (B), increasing the number of channels (102c), i.e. decreasing their individual cross section, typically increases stripping efficiency but at the cost of increased pressure drop across the separation unit (102b).

[0064] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, throughput at constant pressure drop across the separation unit (102b) and at a given density of channel openings (102e) per unit of surface area of the separation unit (102b) in the radial direction can be obtained by increasing the surface area of the separation unit (102b) in the radial direction, i.e. by increasing the number of channels (102c).

[0065] The cross section of channel openings (102e, 102e’) in the radial direction, and of the channels (102c) as a whole, may be selected within a large region, depending on the specific application. The channels (102c) preferably have a diameter in the radial direction of between 0.1 mm and 15 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 10 mm, even more preferably between 1 and 5 mm.

[0066] The cross section of channel openings (102e, 102e’) in the radial direction, and of the channels (102) as a whole, can take different forms. Non-limiting examples are rectangular, square, circular, oval, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal and star shaped. In a preferred embodiment, the cross section of channel openings (102e, 102e’) in the radial direction, and of the channels (102c) as a whole, is circular. Figures 6a and 6b schematically depict embodiments of a rotor (102) of the rotational regenerator device (100), seen in the axial direction, wherein the openings (102e, 102e’) have circular and hexagonal forms, respectively.

[0067]

[0068] In an embodiment, the reboiler unit (103) is positioned inside the housing (101). See Figures 1, 4 and 5 for embodiments wherein the reboiler unit (103) is positioned inside the housing (101).

[0069] In another embodiment, the reboiler unit (103) is positioned outside the housing (101) and is in fluid connection with the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) via at least one outlet (101 f) and at least one inlet (101g).

[0070] In another embodiment, the reboiler unit (103) is in fluid connection with the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) via at least one outlet (10 If) and is positioned outside the housing (101), wherein the reboiler unit (103) comprises a reboiler (103a) and a vapour-liquid separation unit (103b) downstream thereof, wherein the reboiler (103a) is in fluid connection with at least one outlet ( lOlf) of the housing (101) and wherein the vapour-liquid separation unit (103b) has a first outlet (103c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent and a second outlet (103d) in fluid connection with an inlet (101g) in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) for supplying vapour to the bottom section (101c). See Figures 2 and 3 for embodiments wherein the reboiler unit (103) is positioned outside the housing (101).

[0071] In an embodiment, the condenser unit (104) is positioned inside the housing (101). See Figures 1 , 4 and 5 for embodiments wherein the condenser unit (104) is positioned inside the housing (101).

[0072] In another embodiment, the condenser unit (104) is in fluid connection with the top section (101a) of the housing (101) via at least one outlet (101 e) and is positioned outside the housing (101), wherein the condenser unit (104) comprises a condenser (104a) and a vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) downstream thereof, wherein the condenser (104a) is in fluid connection with at least one outlet (101 e) of the housing (101) and wherein the vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) has a first outlet (104c) for gaseous absorbate and a second outlet (104d) in fluid connection with an inlet (101 h) of the housing (101) for recycling condensed vapour to the housing (101). See Figures 2 and 3 for embodiments wherein the condenser unit (104) is positioned outside the housing (101).

[0073] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, embodiments wherein either the condenser unit (104) or the reboiler unit (103) is positioned in the housing (101) and wherein the other unit is in fluid connection with and positioned outside the housing (101) are also encompassed by the invention.

[0074] As explained hereinbefore, the housing (101) has at least one outlet (lOle) in top section (101a) for discharging gaseous absorbate and at least one outlet ( 10 If) in bottom section (101c) for discharging at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent. This is particularly true if the condenser unit (104) and the reboiler unit (103) are positioned inside the housing (101).If the condenser unit (104) is in fluid connection with and positioned outside the housing (101), the at least one outlet (101 e) in top section (101a) is still for discharging gaseous absorbate, but as part of a mixture with water vapour, whereas first outlet (104c) of the vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) is for discharging gaseous absorbate.

[0075] If the reboiler unit (103) is in fluid connection with and positioned outside the housing (101), the at least one outlet (101 f) in bottom section (101c) is still for discharging at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent, but with a higher water concentration than the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent leaving first outlet (103c) of the vapour-liquid separation unit (103b).

[0076] In an embodiment, there is a fluid connection between first outlet (103c) of the vapour-liquid separation unit (103b) and at least one inlet (lOld). See Figure 3 for an example.

[0077] Seal (106)

[0078] During operation of the method of the invention, the rotor (102) is rotating in the housing (101). Accordingly, there is a finite but small opening (annulus) between an inner axial wall (lOli) of the housing (101) and an outer axial wall (102f) of separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) in the radial direction. Liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate that is distributed across the openings (102e) of the channels (102) may at least partially be propelled radially to the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101). Without any measures, this liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate may flow down the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101) directly to the bottom section (101c) without being regenerated. Obviously, this is unwanted. Hence, in a preferred embodiment, the rotational regenerator device (100) comprises a seal (106), positioned in an annulus in the middle section (101b) between an inner axial wall (lOli) of the housing (101) and an outer axial wall (102f) of separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c). The seal (106) is connected to the separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) or to the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101). See Figures 2, 3 and 5 for examples of a regenerator device (100) comprising a seal (106) in the annular space between the inner axial wall (lOli) of the housing (101) and the outer axial wall (102f) of separation unit (102b).

[0079] In a preferred embodiment wherein the rotational regenerator device (100) comprises the seal (106), the housing (101) comprises at least one outlet (lOlj) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, positioned in the middle section (101b) above the seal (106) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c), wherein the at least one outlet (lOlj) is in fluid connection with at least one inlet (10 Id) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate. With this recycling loop, any liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate propelled radially to the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101 ) can be again equallydistributed across the openings (102e) of the plurality of channels (102c) in the form of droplets instead of flooding the openings (102e) of the radially outer channels (102c). See Figure 3 for an example.

[0080] Liquid distributor (107)

[0081] In an embodiment, the at least one inlet (101 d) in top section (101a) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate is connected to a conduit with a liquid distributor (107) reaching into the housing (101) in the axial direction, which liquid distributor (107) is configured to equally distribute liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate in the form of droplets across the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c) (not shown in the Figures). An example of such a liquid distributor (107) is a spray head.

[0082] In an embodiment, the at least one inlet (10 Id) is connected to one or more conduits that are each individually equipped with a liquid distributor (107). In an embodiment, the at least one inlet (lOld) is connected to a conduit with a single liquid distributor (107) that is arranged coaxial to the shaft (102a) and is preferably configured to equally distribute liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate in the form of droplets across all openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c) at the same time.

[0083] Bearing ( 108) and means (105) for rotating

[0084] In an embodiment, the shaft (102a) of the rotor (102) is rotatably coupled to the housing (101) via one or two bearings (108), preferably two bearings ( 108), one of which in the top section (101a) and one of which in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101). See Figure 1 for an example.

[0085] The rotational regenerator device (100) comprises means (105) for rotating the rotor (102) around its central axis of rotation (A) (not shown in the Figures). An example is a motor, such as an electrical motor. The means (105) for rotating the rotor (102) can be configured to directly rotate the shaft or indirectly, such as via magnetic coupling. The means (105) for rotating the rotor (102) can be positioned inside the housing (101) or outside.

[0086] As explained hereinbefore, in an embodiment the condenser unit (104) is in fluid connection with the top section (101a) of the housing (101) via at least one outlet (lOle) and is positioned outside the housing (101), wherein the condenser unit (104) comprises a condenser (104a) and a vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) downstream thereof and wherein the vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) has a second outlet (104d) in fluid connection with an inlet (lOlh) of the housing (101) for recycling condensed vapour to the housing (101).In an embodiment, the inlet (101 h) is positioned in the top section (101a) of the housing (101). See Figures 2 and 3 for examples. This embodiment is preferably combined with the seal (106) and the outlet (101 j) which is in fluid connection with at least one inlet (101 d), such that condensed vapour can be mixed with any liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate propelled radially to the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101) by the rotating rotor (102) and distributed again across the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c). See Figure 3 for an example.

[0087] If the seal (106) and the outlet (lOlj) which is in fluid connection with at least one inlet (lOld) are present, the inlet (lOlh) can also be positioned in the middle section (101b) of the housing (101) above the seal (106) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c), such that condensed vapour can be mixed with any liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate propelled radially to an inner side wall (lOli) of the housing (101) by the rotating rotor (102) and distributed again across the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c).

[0088] If the seal (106) is present, the inlet (lOlh) can also be positioned in the middle section (101b) of the housing (101) below the seal (106) in the axial direction, such that condensed vapour can flow along the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101 ) to the bottom section (101c), where it can be mixed and collected with the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent.

[0089] In a further embodiment, the inlet (101 h) is positioned in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101), such that condensed vapour is mixed and collected with the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent.

[0090] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, embodiments wherein more than one inlets (101 h) are provided in one or more of the top (101a), middle (101b) and bottom (101c) sections are also encompassed by the invention.

[0091] Absorption system (200)

[0092] In a second aspect, the invention concerns an absorption system (200) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorption system (200) comprising:

[0093] • at least one rotational regenerator device (100) as defined in the first aspect; and

[0094] • at least one absorber device (300) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorber device (300) comprising a housing (301), at least one inlet (301 d) for liquid absorbent, at least one inlet (301 e) for a gas loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (301 f) for a scrubbed gas, and at least one outlet (301g) for a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate,wherein at least one outlet (301 g) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of at least one absorber device (300) is in a first fluid connection (201) with at least one inlet (101 d) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of at least one rotational regenerator device (100), and wherein at least one outlet (101 f, 103c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent of at least one rotational regenerator device (100) is in a second fluid connection (202) with at least one inlet (301 d) for liquid absorbent of at least one absorber device (300).

[0095] The geometry of the at least one absorber device (300) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent in the absorption system (200) according to the second aspect is not particularly limiting. See Figure 4 for an example. It can for example be a spray chamber, a tray column or a packed column. However, in a preferred embodiment, the at least one absorber device (300) has a geometry as disclosed in WO2018 / 212643A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0096] In a very preferred embodiment, the at least one absorber device (300) is a rotational absorber device (300) comprising:

[0097] • a housing (301) having a top section (301a), a middle section (301b) and a bottom section (301c) in an axial direction and having at least one inlet (301 d) in top section (301a) for liquid absorbent, at least one inlet (301 e) in either the top section (301a) or in the bottom section (301c) for a gas loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (301 f) in either the top section (301a) or in the bottom section (301c) for a scrubbed gas, and at least one outlet (301g) in the bottom section (301c) for a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, with the proviso that neither the top section (301a) nor the bottom section (301c) comprises both an inlet (301e) for a gas loaded with an absorbate and an outlet (301f) for a scrubbed gas;

[0098] • a rotor (302) mounted for rotation in said housing (301) around a central axis of rotation (A), having a shaft (302a) and a separation unit (302b) comprising a plurality of channels (302c) coaxial to the shaft (302a) and extending axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A), wherein the channels (302c) are circumferentially enclosed by walls (302d) and have openings (302e) facing the top section (301 a) and openings (302e’) facing the bottom section (301c), wherein the channels (302c) and the walls (302d) do not extend beyond the middle section (301b); and

[0099] • means (305) for rotating the rotor (302) around the central axis of rotation (A).

[0100] See Figure 5 for an example.

[0101] Typically, the absorber device (300) is operating at a lower temperature than the regenerator device (100). In order to save energy, sensible heat of the at least partially regenerated liquidabsorbent discharged via the at least one outlet (If, 3c) can be exchanged with the liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate discharged via the least one outlet (301 g). Hence, in a preferred embodiment, the absorption system (200) further comprises a heat exchanger (203) configured to exchange heat between the first fluid connection (201 ) and the second fluid connection (202).

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the rotational absorbing device (300) comprises a seal (306), positioned in an annulus in the middle section (301b) between an inner axial wall (301 i) of the housing (301) and an outer axial wall (302f) of separation unit (302b) of the rotor (302) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (302e) facing the top section (301a) of the plurality of channels (302c). The seal (306) is connected to the separation unit (302b) of the rotor (302) or to the inner axial wall (301i) of the housing (301). See Figure 5 for an example.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment wherein the rotational absorber device (300) comprises the seal (306), the housing (301) comprises at least one outlet (301j) for liquid absorbent, positioned in the middle section (301b) above the seal (306) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (302e) facing the top section (301a) of the plurality of channels (302c), wherein the at least one outlet (301j) is in fluid connection with at least one inlet (301d) for liquid absorbent. With this recycling loop, any liquid absorbent propelled radially to an inner axial wall (301 i) of the housing (101) can be again equally distributed across the openings (302e) facing the top section (301a) of the plurality of channels (302c) in the form of droplets instead of flooding the openings (302e) of the radially outer channels (302c).

[0104] In a preferred embodiment, the number of the plurality of channels (302c) in the separation unit (302b) of the rotor (302) amounts to at least 10, more preferably at least 100, even more preferably at least 1000, such as between 10 and 10000, between 100 and 5000 or between 250 and 2000.

[0105] Other preferred embodiments disclosed in the context of the rotational regenerator device (100) according to the first aspect equally apply to similar features of the absorber device (300), unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0106] Method for regenerating a liquid absorbent

[0107] In a third aspect, the invention concerns a method for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, comprising the steps of:

[0108] (a) providing a rotational regenerator device (100) according to the first aspect or an absorption system (200) according to the second aspect;(b) feeding a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, wherein said liquid absorbent comprises water, via at least one inlet (lOld) to housing (101), wherein said liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate moves through the plurality of channels (102c) of the rotor (102) in the axial direction to the bottom section (101c) driven by gravity while the absorbate is being scrubbed by water vapour moving from the bottom section (101c) through the plurality of channels (102c) in the axial direction to the top section (101a), resulting in at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent in the bottom section (101c) and a mixture comprising water vapour and gaseous absorbate in the top section (101a);

[0109] (c) subjecting the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent to a reboiling step in the reboiling unit (103), resulting in water vapour that is used in step (b);

[0110] (d) subjecting the mixture comprising water vapour and gaseous absorbate to a condensation step in the condenser unit (104), resulting in water and gaseous absorbate; and

[0111] (e) discharging partially regenerated liquid absorbent via outlet (lOlf, 103c) and gaseous absorbate via outlet (lOle, 104c),

[0112] wherein the rotor (102) is rotated during steps (b) to (e).

[0113] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent obtained in step (b) remains at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent after boiling of water in step (c). Moreover, the skilled person will appreciate that steps (b) to (e) need not necessarily be performed in this order but may also be performed simultaneously in a continuous process.

[0114] Liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate is fed via at least one inlet (101 d) in the top section (101a) to housing (101). Since the top section (101a) and the at least one inlet (101 d) are positioned above, in the axial direction, the middle section (101b) comprising the separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) comprising the plurality of channels (102c), liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate is distributed across the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) and is driven by gravity through the plurality of channels (102c) towards the openings (102e’) facing the bottom section (101a) and further to the bottom section (101c) itself. Water vapour is produced in the reboiler unit (103) which is positioned in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) or is fluidly connected to the bottom section (101c) via at least one outlet (lOlf) and is positioned outside the housing (101). The water vapour enters the channels (102c) via the openings (102e’) facing the bottom section (101c) and moves upwards through the plurality of channels (102c) towards the top section (101a). Hence the flow of the water vapour and the liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate is counter-current. Since the rotor (102) is rotating during steps (b) to (e), the liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate flows, as a result of the centrifugal forces, downwards asa thin film with a thickness of typically a few tens of micrometers on the radially outward parts of the walls (102d), preferably a film with a thickness of 0.001 to 1 mm, more preferably between 0.010 and 0.1 mm.

[0115] The flow of the water vapour through the channels (102c) towards the top section (101a) can be laminar or turbulent. The flow of the liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate through the channels (102c) towards the bottom section (101c) is generally laminar.

[0116] The level of shear force in the channels (102c) can be influenced by the pressure gradient in the channels (102c). This pressure gradient may be determined by the pressure of the water vapour flowing upwards.

[0117] One skilled in the art will be able to choose a suitable axial velocity of the water vapour in order to allow the formation of a liquid film that flows through the plurality of channels (102c) towards the bottom section (101c) by gravity and in order to allow the desired stripping of the absorbate from the absorbent liquid loaded with the absorbate by the water vapour.

[0118] The small cross section of openings (102e,102e’) of the channels (102c) in the radial direction, and of the channels (102c) as a whole, and the small thickness of the film promote a low resistance to molecular transport of absorbate from liquid absorbent to the water vapour. Moreover, the formation of a film due to centrifugal forces prevents blocking of the channels (102c) by capillary forces, which can create a bridge of fluid over the entire cross section of the openings (102e, 102e’) of the channels (102c).

[0119] At the openings (102e’) of the channels (102c) facing the bottom section (101c), the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent leaves the channels (102c). Due to the rotation of the rotor ( 102), droplets of the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent are propelled radially to the inner axial wall (lOli) of the housing (101) and are collected in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101). The liquid phase of at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent collected in the bottom section (101c) is subjected to a reboiling step in the reboiling unit (103), resulting in water vapour that is used in step (b) to strip the absorbate from the liquid absorbent loaded with absorbate.

[0120] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent collected in the bottom section (101c) may still contain too much of the absorbate. In an embodiment, part of the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent collected in the bottom section (101c) is recycled via a fluid connection to inlet (lOld). See Figure 3 for an example.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid absorbent comprises water and an amine-based solvent and / or the absorbate is CO2. In a very preferred embodiment, the liquid absorbent comprises water and an amine-based solvent and the absorbate is CO2.In a preferred embodiment, the method according to the third aspect is performed in the absorption system (200) according to the second aspect. In this embodiment, the liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of step (b) is supplied via at least one outlet (301 g) of at least one absorber device (300) and the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent in step (e) is discharged to at least one inlet (301 d) of at least one absorber device (300).

[0122] The absorption step in the least one absorber device (300) is preferably performed at temperatures below 50 °C, more preferably below 30 °C, most preferably below 15 °C. The regeneration step in the least one rotational regenerator device (100) is preferably performed at temperatures above 80 °C, more preferably above 100 °C, most preferably above 150 °C.

[0123] Preferred embodiments disclosed in the context of the first and second aspects are equally applicable to the third aspect, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0124] Thus, the invention has been described by reference to certain embodiments discussed above. It will be recognized that these embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms well known to those of skill in the art.

[0125] Furthermore, for a proper understanding of this document and its claims, it is to be understood that the verb "to comprise’ and its conjugations are used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. In addition, reference to an element by the indefinite article ‘a’ or ’an’ does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the element is present, unless the context clearly requires that there be one and only one of the elements. The indefinite article ’a’ or ’an’ thus usually means ’at least one’ .

Claims

CLAIMS1. Rotational regenerator device ( 100) for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, the device comprising:• a housing (101) having a top section (101a), a middle section (101b) and a bottom section (101c) in an axial direction and having at least one inlet (10 Id) in top section (101a) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (lOle) in top section (101a) for a gaseous absorbate and at least one outlet (lOlf) in bottom section (101c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent;• a rotor (102) mounted for rotation in said housing (101) around a central axis of rotation, having a shaft (102a) and a separation unit (102b) comprising a plurality of channels (102c) coaxial to the shaft (102a) and extending axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A), wherein the channels (102c) are circumferentially enclosed by walls ( 102d) and have openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) and openings (102e’) facing the bottom section (101c), wherein the channels (102c) and the walls (102d) of the separation unit (102b) do not extend beyond the middle section (101b);• a reboiler unit (103) positioned in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) or fluidly connected to the bottom section (101c) via at least one outlet ( 10 If) and positioned outside the housing (101);• a condenser unit (104) positioned in the top section (101a) of the housing (101 ) or fluidly connected to the top section (101a) via at least one outlet (101 e) and positioned outside the housing (101); and• means (105) for rotating the rotor (102) around the central axis of rotation (A).

2. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the reboiler unit (103) is in fluid connection with the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) via at least one outlet (101 f) and is positioned outside the housing (101), wherein the reboiler unit (103) comprises a reboiler (103a) and a vapour-liquid separation unit (103b) downstream thereof, wherein the reboiler (103a) is in fluid connection with at least one outlet (101 f) of the housing (101) and wherein the vapour-liquid separation unit (103b) has a first outlet (103c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent and a second outlet (103d) in fluid connection with an inlet (101g) in the bottom section (101c) of the housing (101) for supplying vapour to the bottom section (101c).

3. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the condenser unit (104) is in fluid connection with the top section (101a) of the housing (101) via at least one outlet (101 e) and is positioned outside the housing (101), wherein the condenser unit (104) comprises a condenser (104a) and a vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) downstream thereof, wherein the condenser (104a) is in fluid connection with at least one outlet (101 e) of the housing (101 ) and wherein the vapour-liquid separation unit (104b) has a first outlet (104c) for discharging gaseous absorbate and a second outlet (104d) in fluid connection with an inlet (10th) of the housing (101) for recycling condensed vapour to the housing (101).

4. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a seal (106), positioned in an annulus in the middle section (101b) between an inner axial wall (lOli) of the housing (101) and an outer axial wall (102f) of separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c).

5. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to claim 4, wherein the seal (106) is connected to the separation unit (102b) of the rotor (102) or to the inner axial wall (101 i) of the housing (101).

6. Rotational regenerator device ( 100) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the housing (101) comprises at least one outlet (101 j) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, positioned in the middle section (101b) above the seal (106) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c), wherein the at least one outlet (101 j) is in fluid connection with at least one inlet (101 d) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate.

7. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the number of the plurality of channels (102c) of the rotor (102) amounts to at least 10, preferably at least 100, more preferably at least 1000.

8. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one inlet (lOld) in top section (101a) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate is connected to a conduit with a liquid distributor (107) reaching into the housing (101) in the axial direction, which liquid distributor (107) is configured to equally distribute liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate in the form of droplets across the openings (102e) facing the top section (101a) of the plurality of channels (102c).

9. Rotational regenerator device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the shaft ( 102a) of the rotor ( 102) is rotatably coupled to the housing (101 ) via one or two bearings (108).

10. Absorption system (200) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorption system (200) comprising:• at least one rotational regenerator device (100) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9;and• at least one absorber device (300) for scrubbing an absorbate from a gas with a liquid absorbent, said absorber device (300) comprising a housing (301), at least one inlet (301 d) for liquid absorbent, at least one inlet (301 e) for a gas loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (301 f) for a scrubbed gas, and at least one outlet (301 g) for a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate,wherein at least one outlet (301 g) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of at least one absorber device (300) is in a first fluid connection (201) with at least one inlet (lOld) for liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate of at least one rotational regenerator device (100), andwherein at least one outlet (10 If, 103c) for at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent of at least one rotational regenerator device (100) is in a second fluid connection (202) with at least one inlet (301d) for liquid absorbent of at least one absorber device (300).

11. Absorption system (200) according to claim 10, further comprising a heat exchanger (203) configured to exchange heat between the first fluid connection (201) and the second fluid connection (202).

12. Absorption system (200) according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein the at least one absorber device (300) is a rotational absorber device (300) comprising:• a housing (301 ) having a top section (301 a), a middle section (301b) and a bottom section (301c) in an axial direction and having at least one inlet (30 Id) in top section (301a) for liquid absorbent, at least one inlet (30 le) in either the top section (301a) or in the bottom section (301c) for a gas loaded with an absorbate, at least one outlet (301f) in either the top section (301a) or in the bottom section (301c) for a scrubbed gas, and at least one outlet (301g) in the bottom section (301c) for a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, with the proviso that neither the top section (301a) nor thebottom section (301c) comprises both an inlet (301 e) for a gas loaded with an absorbate and an outlet (301 f) for a scrubbed gas;• a rotor (302) mounted for rotation in said housing (301 ) around a central axis of rotation (A), having a shaft (302a) and a separation unit (302b) comprising a plurality of channels (302c) coaxial to the shaft (302a) and extending axially over an entire length (B) substantially parallel to the central axis of rotation (A), wherein the channels (302c) are circumferentially enclosed by walls (302d) and have openings (302e) facing the top section (301a) and openings (302e’) facing the bottom section (301c), wherein the channels (302c) and the walls (302d) do not extend beyond the middle section (301b); and• means (305) for rotating the rotor (302) around the central axis of rotation (A).

13. Absorption system (200) according to any one of claim 12, wherein the rotational absorber device (300) comprises a seal (306), positioned in an annulus in the middle section (301b) between an inner axial wall (301 i) of the housing (1) and an outer axial wall (302f) of separation unit (302b) of the rotor (302) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (302e) facing the top section (301a) of the plurality of channels (302c).

14. Absorption system (200) according claim 13, wherein the seal (306) is connected to the separation unit (302b) of the rotor (302) or to the inner axial wall (30 li) of the housing (301).

15. Absorption system (200) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the housing (301) of the rotational absorber device (300) comprises at least one outlet (30 Ij) for liquid absorbent, positioned in the middle section (301b) above the seal (306) and below, in the axial direction, the openings (302e) facing the top section (301a) of the plurality of channels (302c), wherein the at least one outlet (301 j) is in fluid connection with at least one inlet (301 d) for liquid absorbent.

16. Absorption system (200) according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the number of the plurality of channels (302c) in the separation unit (302b) of the rotor (302) amounts to at least 10, preferably at least 100, more preferably at least 1000.

17. Method for regenerating a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, comprising the steps of:(a) providing a rotational regenerator device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or an absorption system (200) according to any one of claims 10 to 16;(b) feeding a liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate, wherein said liquid absorbent comprises water, via at least one inlet (101 d) to housing (101), wherein said liquid absorbent loaded with an absorbate moves through the plurality of channels (102c) of the rotor (102) in the axial direction to the bottom section (101c) driven by gravity while the absorbate is being scrubbed by water vapour moving from the bottom section (101c) through the plurality of channels (102c) in the axial direction to the top section (101a), resulting in at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent in the bottom section (101c) and a mixture comprising water vapour and gaseous absorbate in the top section (101a);(c) subjecting the at least partially regenerated liquid absorbent to a reboiling step in the reboiling unit (103), resulting in water vapour that is used in step (b);(d) subjecting the mixture comprising water vapour and gaseous absorbate to a condensation step in the condenser unit (104), resulting in water and gaseous absorbate; and(e) discharging partially regenerated liquid absorbent via outlet (lOlf, 103c) and gaseous absorbate via outlet (lOle, 104c),wherein the rotor (102) is rotated during steps (b) to (e).

18. Method according to claim 17, wherein the liquid absorbent comprises water and an amine- based solvent and / or wherein the absorbate is CO2.

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